homesteading

Keeping Cows in the Winter Part #2   I’m going to write about the second part of this series of keeping cows in the winter.  The first one was about making sure they have adequate water.  I’m going to talk about shelter in the winter.  This will once again depend on where you are in this great United States.  We have such diverse weather conditions. I think that this could end up being a great debate, but I’m not wanting that.  I know some people think that the cows need a 5 Star barn and others think a few trees are plenty.  I’m just going to do a basic all around article on what the cows should have.  Then you can go from there and do what you feel is necessary.  Starting with the milder states, you still should have at least a covering for them to get out of the sun in the summer and wind in the winter.  If you live in the colder states you will at least need a wind block.  It is also good for you to have at least a 3 sided building.  It doesn’t have to be fancy.  It just needs to be something that they can get in out of the wind and rain/snow.  Now if you have had cows very long you will know that they will just stand outside in the weather.  They have grown coats for the weather that you have in your area.     You will notice cows standing out in the winter weather and have their backs covered in snow.  That is a good sign.  That means that they are well insulated!!  Dexters in particular were created to weather more difficult situations.  Each person knows what they want for their herd.  This is just some basic advice on what to have.  Happy Winter!!!